Beresford headphone amp

[StanleyB]

Any suggestion for a name? I am in the process of making the first prototype. The partial 3D view is below.

http://www.homehifi.co.uk/aos/HPA.jpg

I got basically fed up that nothing existed to satisfy my desire for a lot more control of the headphone amps output and abilities. So I have come up with my own idea on what parameters would be convenient to have on an amp.

[Gordon Steadman]

Headcase?

Headache?

Head honcho

Beresford headphone amplifier? (or BHA)

[RochaCullen]

Well it will have to be in line with your previous naming convention... Not a snake, not an aligator, but another reptile. What about Chameleon??

Its a type of lizard, and it changes to suit its surroundings, as your headphone amp will change to suit the headphones.

[pitadavespa]

Well it will have to be in line with your previous naming convention... Not a snake, not an aligator, but another reptile. What about Chameleon??

Its a type of lizard, and it changes to suit its surroundings, as your headphone amp will change to suit the headphones.

^^ Nice.

Following the same line of thinking but choosing an animal that is not a reptile, how about Octopus?

[Gordon Steadman]

Headmaster?

[ZebuTheOxen]

What about Diadem?

Diadem literally meaning 'crown' (Something worn on your head), as well as the diadem snake.

[rossman]

Headmaster?

+1 on Headmaster, links nicely with Bushmaster imo

[StanleyB]

Some very good suggestions there :).

[NRG]

Thought an Octopus was part of the Mollusc family :D How about Dragon, Gecko or Basilisk

[pitadavespa]

Thought an Octopus was part of the Mollusc family :D How about Dragon, Gecko or Basilisk

It is, and I never said it wasn't. In fact, I said it was not a reptile. :)
My line of thought was the octopus, like the chameleon, changes and adapts itself to suit its surroundings. ;)

[Theadmans]

Hi Stan how about "Snakehead" ?

A snakehead is a fresh water fish (and less apropriate a Chinese Gang member like the Triads).

BTW is the idea of this new Headphone Amp going to be to give a better sound than the one built into the Bushmaster MKII?

Or is it simply intended for people that have a DAC or source already and just need Head Amp capability ?

[Fi-Wi]

I suggest Bushido. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bushido)

A honorary reminder of the code of the great Japanese Samurai, who - lets face it - looked like reptiles. :)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7c/Samurai_with_sword.jpg

[StanleyB]

BTW is the idea of this new Headphone Amp going to be to give a better sound than the one built into the Bushmaster MKII?

Or is it simply intended for people that have a DAC or source already and just need Head Amp capability ?
The idea behind it was for me to have a solution at hand that satisfies my personal desire for a headphone amp that can be adjusted to match my individual headphones. I'll explain the purpose of the individual controls another time, but suffice to say that after using the Bushmaster prototype version for a while I concluded that there must be many more hardcore headphone users out there who are faced with the same predicament. I have headphones from 12 Ohms to 300 Ohms, and it is infuriating to have to remember that the volume level is different with different headphones for the same position on the dial. At least with this amp you can dial in the headphone impedance (and other parameters) in order to overcome certain limitations on currently available headphone amps.

[walpurgis]

Canable

[The Grand Wazoo]

Beresford Komodo

[Wakefield Turntables]

Beresford Katana - A head phoneamp so good that it cuts through the shit and delivers the sonic goods. :eek:

[The Grand Wazoo]

Beresford Jaguar

http://www.netanimations.net/1684animalleopardheadph.gif

[oldson]

Well it will have to be in line with your previous naming convention... Not a snake, not an aligator, but another reptile. What about Chameleon??

Its a type of lizard, and it changes to suit its surroundings, as your headphone amp will change to suit the headphones.

there is already an amp by that name although its portable and spelling is different.
http://diyah.boards.net/thread/600/kameleon-portable-headphone-amplifier

[oldson]

ninja?

[StanleyB]

There are some great suggestions here. But all of the ones that seem obvious choices have already been snapped up for use with audio related products.

What about Colibri? That's the South American name for the hummingbird.

From Wikipedia:
They are known as hummingbirds because of the humming sound created by their beating wings which flap at high frequencies audible to humans. They hover in mid-air at rapid wing flapping rates, typically around 50 times per second, but possibly as high as 200 times per second, allowing them also to fly at speeds exceeding 15 m/s (54 km/h; 34 mph), backwards or upside down.

These are the sort of technical specifications terminologies that you would more likely find being used in headphones and speakers. And therefore an ideal candidate for a headphone amp.
Anyone else with me on the reasoning behind the suggestion?

[walpurgis]

What about Colibri?

Not too sure about that Stan. I immediately had visions of cigarette lighters when I saw the word.

[StanleyB]

Not too sure about that Stan. I immediately had visions of cigarette lighters when I saw the word.
:smoking:

[Canetoad]

Another snake - Taipan.

[The Grand Wazoo]

I like your logic Stan.
I was thinking birds too, but was focussing on the killers! Nothing sounded right so I moved onto fish - there's some cool sounding S. American fishy predators (apart from the obvious Piranha and Barracuda), but they'd mean nothing to a bloke living in Berkshire, for example!

[The Barbarian]

Just call it a 'TC !!!' like the rest of the present range!

[friendly]

Every TC needs a Dibble
Sorry showing my age :lol:

[Crimson]

What about Dragon named after the Komodo dragon?

[The Grand Wazoo]

That's the South American name for the hummingbird............These are the sort of technical specifications terminologies that you would more likely find being used in headphones and speakers. And therefore an ideal candidate for a headphone amp.
Anyone else with me on the reasoning behind the suggestion?

How about a particular species of hummingbird Stan?
I found a list!

A couple I think could be good:

Besresford Xantus
From the Baja Peninsula

http://www.worldofhummingbirds.com/includes/types/slides/Xantus's%20Hummingbird.jpg

Or
Beresford Sabre Wing
From Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico

http://www.birdforum.net/opus/images/thumb/d/d3/Wedge-tailed_Sabrewing.jpg/550px-Wedge-tailed_Sabrewing.jpg

This one has the rather astonishing scientific name of Campylopterus Curvipennis !!

[Old George]

How about a particular species of hummingbird Stan?
I found a list!

A couple I think could be good:

Besresford Xantus

Sounds good to me. ;)

Or
Beresford Sabre Wing

Sounds like a new generation of jet fighter! :lol:




I like the sound of 'Xantus', and the previous suggestion of 'Headmaster'

[Techno Commander]

I was thinking "Headmistress" and had visions of being softly massaged with intimate sound. :eyebrows:

[zilch0md]

Beresford Jaguar

http://www.netanimations.net/1684animalleopardheadph.gif

Haha! When I came to this page, I was in the middle of listening to Stevie Ray Vaughan's Mary Had a Little Lamb.

Perfect sync!

:lol:

[zilch0md]

I vote "Headmaster," but if it's already trademarked, I'm stumped.

[pitadavespa]

x2 :thumbsup:

[StanleyB]

Clarity audio uses the headmaster name already.

[Gordon Steadman]

I vote "Headmaster," but if it's already trademarked, I'm stumped.

Nah, I'll let him use it, I'm not fussed:)

[Gordon Steadman]

Nah, I'll let him use it, I'm not fussed:)

But apparently Clarity would be!!

[walpurgis]

Have a large volume control on the front and call it 'The Big Knob'.

At least it would be memorable! ;)

[istari_knight]

"The Eargasmatron 5000 Mk.XI"

[StanleyB]

I do have a sizeable female clients base, so I don't want to alienate them with some macho or sexist sounding name.

[walpurgis]

I do have a sizeable female clients base, so I don't want to alienate them with some macho or sexist sounding name.

Well call it the 'Petal' then Stan.:D

[Mr Kipling]

It's obvious, isn't it:

The H.P. Source

[Gordon Steadman]

It's obvious, isn't it:

H.P. Source
:doh: :eyebrows:

[Gordon Steadman]

Headlamp - shining a light into the deepest recesses of your music.

[Gordon Steadman]

I suppose you might get away with Headmeister?

[Mr Kipling]

H.P. Drive

[Mr Kipling]

"The Ear Amp"

Certain ring to it.

[Mr Kipling]

"The Wax Blaster"

[Gordon Steadman]

"The Wax Blaster"

There was me thinking that Stan was after some serious suggestions:eyebrows:

[Gordon Steadman]

The Beresford Composer - continues the 'c' theme. I was trying to think of a particular composer but.....

[pitadavespa]

The Beresford Owl

--

"Sharpest hearing – The owl

These birds have phenomenal hearing. Their large ear holes are at slightly different heights, above and below eye level, helping them pinpoint the vertical positions of sound sources. But what is truly astonishing is their reaction time. In complete darkness, it takes tawny owls less than 0.01 of a second to assess the precise direction of a scurrying mouse, for example."

in http://largestfastestsmartest.co.uk/animals-with-the-best-sense-of-hearing-in-the-world/

[Mr Kipling]

Who said I'm not being serious, Gordon? I'm thinking of the (profitable) youth market here Gordon. I think something a bit snappy, a bit off the wall will have them beating a path to Stan's door.

[StanleyB]

Mind you, I am not after the youth market. I am after the serious headphone user who wants to be able to set up his/her headphone for optimum listening pleasure. Only the Phonitor range, at the £1K or more level, currently offers a reasonable amount of headphone control. But not everyone is capable to find that kind of money to invest in a headphone amp. My version hopes to open up the market a bit more.

[Gordon Steadman]

Who said I'm not being serious, Gordon? I'm thinking of the (profitable) youth market here Gordon. I think something a bit snappy, a bit off the wall will have them beating a path to Stan's door.
:)

[Mr Kipling]

Well, if you want to open up the market, how about - "The Can Opener"?

[Gordon Steadman]

If its going to be internetable you could call it the iCan. Seriously:rolleyes:

[Gordon Steadman]

Well, if you want to open up the market, how about - "The Can Opener"?

Hah!! Two cans.

Beresford Toucan. Job done:)

[Covenant]

Audite-latin for listen.

[Mr Kipling]

If there's a prize, I think a 50/50 split would be amicable.

[Mr Kipling]

Earlier I had a look for head in Latin, but it turns out to be "Caput"!

[walpurgis]

There was me thinking that Stan was after some serious suggestions:eyebrows:

Oh come on, this is AOS, you knew it would descend into mindless nonsense sooner or later (sorry Stan). :)

[zygote23]

Stanley's Expanding Headband!

[Mr Kipling]

What do you mean - "mindless", Geoff! I've used valuable neurons on this thread.

[walpurgis]

What do you mean - "mindless", Geoff! I've used valuable neurons on this thread.

But can you afford to spare them? :)

[synsei]

Beresford Copperhead

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/96/Agkistrodon_contortrix_contortrix_CDC-a.png

[Gordon Steadman]

CANaloni - for that individual experience!

[Firebottle]

Fabulous picture Dave, I like that name as well :thumbsup:

[Gordon Steadman]

Beresford Copperhead

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/96/Agkistrodon_contortrix_contortrix_CDC-a.png

That snake looks like it has swallowed a cable of some sort, maybe one with less hiss?

[Mr Kipling]

But can you afford to spare them? :)

Well, No is the short answer - but I liike to try and amuse.

Staying with the can theme - "The Can-Can".

[synsei]

Fabulous picture Dave, I like that name as well :thumbsup:

:)


That snake looks like it has swallowed a cable of some sort, maybe one with less hiss?

:lol:

Diamondback...

http://venturegalleries.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/western-diamondback-rattlesnake-scott-linstead-jpg.jpg

[Gordon Steadman]

Beresford Attune

There so many bits of hifi out there, that its almost inevitable that someone has already used any name going. Perhaps thats why so many companies just use numbers.

So BHA1 then?

[Mr Kipling]

And a simple code will give you - the "281".

[Gordon Steadman]

Course, if you do decide to chase that youth market - Canteens!!

[StanleyB]

Now that the components have been soldered onto the first shot of the PCB design, I have been listening to the result. Early days yet, and additional fine tuning to be done. I am not easily impressed, especially with something radical and not conforming to the established design norm. But my word, I am seriously overwhelmed in this case. Being able to control the parameters of the output stage in order to drive each and everyone of my different headphones to its maximum potential makes it a far more enjoyable listening experience in every case. It's a headphone listener's dream come true. I'll probably have to organize a headphone addict mini meet soon to get some outsiders impressions, and which way to go next.

[CSM]

Very excited about this Stan!

The dac's are of a serious established quality - that's what my ears tell me.

Really excited to see how this fares with my headphones.

[StanleyB]

Hi Aleem, I hope that you have suitably recovered from the four hours of trying out my headphone amp.

[CSM]

Hi Stan!!!

Yea, Thanks a lot again for letting me demo this and pretty much anything I could get my hands on in your office. Like a kid in a room full of toys huh...

I really liked this headphone amp and tried it with, well, lets list the headphones shall we:
HD800
HD650
T1
Ultrasone Signature Pro
Denon d7k
Sony SA5000
AKG K701
Minerva Mi Performer Pro (CIEM's)

I think out of these I know the T1's the best as it's something I've tried across multiple headphone amps over the years and it's good at helping identify an amplifiers performance. Something like the HD800 is a bit picky - and an amp that doesn't pair with it isn't necessarily a bad one.
This headphone amp was terrific with the T1's. Instantly noticeable was the absence of 'artificial' brightness and upper midrange edges but without sacrifice to the T1's high end extension. Have to repeat that - without sacrificing the T1's high end extension at all - because the amp isn't enforcing a warm colour to the sound. It's just well driven. Soundstage was wide and well made. Bass was more present and defined. Beyer's own amps do something similar (A1 / A20) as you'd expect them to, but the graham slee UL Diamond for example doesn't.

With the HD800's as well this amp was impressive. HD800 sound varies considerably with different headphone amps. Sometimes it's a bass machine and sometimes it's bass dry, brittle and bright. With this amp it's more of the latter, impressing in bass resolution and depth. Hans zimmer bass lines were perfectly exposed as was Yo Yo Ma's Cello and strings in endellion's string quartet. Soundstage was large but in balanced mode the headphone can scale up on the imaging/soundstage front.

With the HD650's the headphone became more clear than the BM2 of the Caiman 2's headphone output - again a sign of proper drive from a headphone amp. It's almost like a cliche in the headphone world where a sign of good amp is in bringing the HD650 to another level. This doesn't approach the level of the T1's or HD800, but it's brilliant for the price.

The other headphones were of a lower impedance and higher sensitivity considerably - and I was testing it out whilst the amp wasn't grounded. Was just on a PCB and not in a case or anything. So there was too much noise for me to hear things clearly.

Obviously the amp is still in it's design phase and with that I want to mention briefly the controls. I guess Stan has a lot of fussy customers (or those taking advantage of the personalisation available - I am for the caiman II headphone output) and so has thought out a plan - let people customise their output with a whole load of controls. There's controls for bass/treble (current drive or something - can't remember), right/left balance, and a few others......the most important of which for me is the gain. Pleased to say that this works very neatly as it's a continuous control and not a discrete 2 or 3 steps to choose from. As a result there's opportunity for plenty of play with the volume dial for all ranges of headphones regardless of sensitivity.

Stan said it's a work he's really proud of and I've got a lot of praise for this this piece of work. Can't wait till it is released!

Thanks again to stan for letting me demo this at his home.

p.s....and it didn't take me that long to get back (under an hour - these london buses didn't hiccup on the way back)

[zygote23]

I've been planning a pair of AKG 701's for an age now and if this unit is available later in the year I'd be very interested indeed.

[StanleyB]

Stan - exciting times to be a Beresford customer :) A few qustions though :-

1) Will the standalone Headphone Amplifier have end user adjustment for different Headphones ?

2) What connections will the Head Amp have - I am wondering how it will fit into my system - I have a Bushmaster MK2 but will also need to listen via my Creek Integrated Amp and Speakers as well as HD650s on the new Head Amp?

3) Do you have a projected price for the Head Amp (even if it is approximate at this stage - I am considering whether to keep my Bushmaster 2 with the Head Amp or move up to the Caiman 2)

4) Will the new Head Amp be capable of being powered by battery ?
Hi Adam,

1. Yes.

2. RCA/PHONO IN & OUT, and a headphone socket. DC IN & OUT.

3. Between £100 to £150 excluding VAT and delivery.

4. Yes.

[CSM]

I've been planning a pair of AKG 701's for an age now and if this unit is available later in the year I'd be very interested indeed.

The finished unit would be perfect for the K701's.
These need a suitable amp to especially give it the best on the tonal front of things. More control and natural voicing when amped properly.

Really impressive amp for any price - stunning work Stan.

I have to repeat though that considering the phonitor as the aim to get to is very wise as that's one of the most (if not the most) highly regarded headphone amps out there. It's suited to a huge range of headphones from highly sensitive IEM types to large open backed stiff coiled 600ohm units. That's rare to come across in a headphone amp and that's what the bushmaster will do.

[Theadmans]

Hi Adam,

1. Yes.

2. RCA/PHONO IN & OUT, and a headphone socket. DC IN & OUT.

3. Between £100 to £150 excluding VAT and delivery.

4. Yes.


Thanks for all that - seems like a winner to me at that price !

I am still considering what to do next - but your answers are leading me to the conclusion that I will keep my Bushmaster MK2 (instead of upgrading to the Caiman MK2) and simply add this new Head Amp. Headphone sound that can be adjusted is more important to me than USB capabilty and IMHO the Bushmaster DAC is good enough for ears.

You know I have the Anker Battery that requires a split lead to a grain of wheat bulb (to keep it powered). Could I remove this bulb and power both the Bushmaster and Head Amp instead from the one Anker Battery ?

BTW What is the intended use of the DC out on the new Head Amp.Could you use just one power supply to power both the Head Amp and a Bushmaster (for example) ?

[StanleyB]

You know I have the Anker Battery that requires a split lead to a grain of wheat bulb (to keep it powered). Could I remove this bulb and power both the Bushmaster and Head Amp instead from the one Anker Battery ?

BTW What is the intended use of the DC out on the new Head Amp.Could you use just one power supply to power both the Head Amp and a Bushmaster (for example) ?
1. I have no idea. You would have to give it a try and report back.
2. Yes the DC out socket is designed to daisy chain a DAC and the headamp to the same main power supply.

[Theadmans]

Just wondering Stan - I know you are busy with the launch of Caiman II at the moment - but do you have a projected launch date for the Head Amp yet ?

[StanleyB]

Just wondering Stan - I know you are busy with the launch of Caiman II at the moment - but do you have a projected launch date for the Head Amp yet ?
I am still in the beta stage. So you are looking at the end of the summer at the earliest.

[Theadmans]

I am still in the beta stage. So you are looking at the end of the summer at the earliest.

OK Stan that's fine - maybe looking at making it a Xmas present for myself !

[Xaval]

I want one as soon as it's available :kiss:

[CSM]

Have you thought of a name for it yet Stan?

[J-PG]

Hey guys,

here is my contribution to the naming-process.
I did some quick brainstorming…but…yeah…most of it may sound very funny/stupid to a native speaker…^^

Beresford Panther
Beresford Raptor
Beresford Stingray
Beresford HeAdd-on
Beresford Step-Up (amp)
Beresford HeadKit

Beresford CanHancer
Beresford CanAlyzer
Beresford Booster-Pack ; )

additional words:
second gear, step-up, boost, expand, enhance, reveal, clarify, attach, transform, regulate, denoise, balance, shape, symbiont

Paul

[Mr Kipling]

Not enough pazazz.

The BNE: BERESFORD NEURON EXCITOR

Enough pazazz there for anyone, I think.

[Xaval]

Stan, one of my favorite headphones is a 1937 design... the Beyer DT48A. It's 5ohm. Please take this in consideration for the final version :)

[J-PG]

How about the amazing Lyrebird for the naming?

http://youtu.be/VjE0Kdfos4Y?t=1m46s

''He also – in his attempt to outsing his rivals – incorporates other sounds that he hears in the forest […]''

Wikipedia:
The lyrebird's syrinx is the most complexly-muscled of the Passerines (songbirds), giving the lyrebird extraordinary ability, unmatched in vocal repertoire and mimicry. Lyrebirds render with great fidelity the individual songs of other birds and the chatter of flocks of birds, and also mimic other animals such as koalas and dingos.[3] The lyrebird is capable of imitating almost any sound and they have been recorded mimicking human caused sounds such as a mill whistle to a cross-cut saw, chainsaws,[9] car engines and car alarms, fire alarms, rifle-shots, camera shutters, dogs barking, crying babies, music, and even the human voice.

Beresford Lyrebird
Beresford Syrinx (vocal organ of birds)

Love that bird!

[Xaval]

As per first post, what does Depth do? Crossfeed? That would be adventurous :)

Loving all the other knobs :eyebrows:

[StanleyB]

As per first post, what does Depth do? Crossfeed? That would be adventurous :)
The Depth control allows you to adjust the level of aggression in the sound, in particular the midrange. Some headphones are laid back, whilst some are very much in your face. The Depth control can alter that by changing the phase angle between the direct signal and the signal feedback path. This parameter, like most of the others on my design, are normally set at a fixed position by a headphone circuit designer. In this case the parameter is adjustable by the end-user according to taste or individual headphone requirement.

I didn't add crossfeed since my headphone circuit design already has a more spatial sound. The initial idea of crossfeeding the left and right signal was to counter act the boomy bass right between your ears. But I solved that problem long ago in my headphone circuit.

[Xaval]

Thank you Stan. This surely looks like it'll be a revolutionary product from a feature perspective at your "usual" price point. Really looking forward for this product being released.

[Xaval]

Stan,
I can imagine that if there were any news about the head amp, there would be something posted already so, I ask about "when" there is going to be any news about the new head amp? :eyebrows:

[StanleyB]

It is still on track for October sometime. I am having about two weeks of down time for medical reasons from next week. So I have pushed some things a bit further down the line in order to give me time to recover.

[Xaval]

Health first, that's for sure. Best wishes.

[DaveK]

Health first, that's for sure. Best wishes.

+ 1 from me too Stan - health takes priority over everything.
BTW, are you still interested in looking at a dead Squeezebox Touch? The guy who is looking at mine has drawn a complete blank but seems very reluctant to admit defeat. I might have it back shortly if I can persuade him to throw in the towel.
Dave.

[StanleyB]

BTW, are you still interested in looking at a dead Squeezebox Touch?
I am indeed. Just let me know when you have it back and can send it. If I get it going again, you can have it back afterwards. I am interested in finding out why they go dead when they are plugged into a 12V supply.

[zilch0md]

Given that this amp will provide users with an unprecedented ability to customize the sound they hear, as I thought about the possibility of "curing" my HD800's ailments, the following name popped into my head:

The Beresford Crucible


Definition:

cru·ci·ble

noun

A place or situation in which different elements interact to produce something new.

[Xaval]

I like it: Crucible

Which amp are you using your HD800 with Michael?
I don't have hd800 anymore, but I foresee buying it again.

[zilch0md]

Hi Xaval,

Currently, my best, yet still inadequate "cure" for the HD800 is this rig:

FiiO X5 Line Out > Audioquest Golden Gate interconnect > OPPO HA-1 balanced out via 4-Pin XLR > Toxic Cables Silver Poison > HD800

http://cdn.head-fi.org/5/5d/5d2691b7_OPPO_HA-1_with_iPad_Mini_Amazon_Music_Player_via_Bluetooth _and_FiiO_X5_Line_Out_and_HD800_x720.jpeg

In the photo, I'm streaming Beck's Sea Change from Amazon Cloud Player on an iPad Mini, via Bluetooth to the HA-1, but as a rule, I only "browse" with various streaming services (Pandora, Spotify, etc.)

http://www.digitalaudioreview.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/9-580x494.png

The HA-1 will decode PCM up to 24/384 and DSD up to DSD128, so for higher quality sound (than streaming MP3), all the way to 24/192 or DSD128, I can use the HA-1's iOS remote control app (or the physical remote control, seen in the picture above) to switch the HA-1 from Bluetooth input to analog input from the FiiO X5 Line Out. The FiiO X5 is piggy-backed to an Anker 10,000 mAh 5V Li-Ion battery pack - to preserve the X5's internal battery.

http://cdn.head-fi.org/4/40/300x300px-LS-40b2a860_1042380915_X5.jpeg

Playing mostly 44/16 and 96/24 WAV files from two 64GB microSD cards mounted in the FiiO X5's readers, for the HD800, I'm using the PCM1792A DAC within the FiiO X5 portable player to bypass the OPPO HA-1's own ESS9018 DAC. The FiiO X5's Line Out is warmer and more analog sounding (yet still very detailed) than the neutral, almost sterile ESS9018 (which itself sounds great with my Audeze LCD-2 and some other headphones that aren't as bright and analytical as the HD800.)

I use the FiiO X5's Coaxial Out (with a KabelDirekt 75-Ohm interconnect), instead of the Line Out, to send S/PDIF to the OPPO HA-1's DAC, when listening to any headphone other than the HD800. The HA-1's ESS9018 is perfect for the 50-Ohm Audeze LCD-2 (rev.1) planar magnetic headphones, which has shelved highs and lots of color its own.

Here is a spreadsheet I put together that plots published power output at only two points, but I've fitted a logarithmic trend line that allows me to calculate (estimate) the power output for other loads:

http://cdn.head-fi.org/6/69/696ecb1c_OPPOHA-1OutputPower.jpeg

The HA-1 limits current consumption with decreasing loads - to prevent the required current draw from overheating circuits. This explains why the Watts rms into 32 Ohms isn't 18.75 times the Watts rms into 600 Ohms (why it isn't 15,000 mW into 32 Ohms instead of the specified 2000 mW into 32 Ohms.)

As headphone amps go, 1084 mW of clean power is a lot into a 300-Ohm load (HD800). The HA-1's amp is neutral, has a lot of authority and grainless transparency, balanced out to the HD800. The bass is absolutely perfect in my opinion - not lacking in any way - not for extension, not for energy, not for control. But the treble is still too bright for my tastes, even with the FiiO X5 Line Out, which is a bit warmer than the Bushmaster MkII.

In addition to considering warmer DACs (MHDT Labs Havana V2, for example), I'm also thinking about applying a mod to tame the highs of the HD800:

http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/diy-modification-sennheiser-hd-800-anaxilus-mod

Mike

[zilch0md]

Getting back on topic...

The ability to tailor an amp's sound on the fly, in the hardware itself (without using software EQ), would hopefully alleviate the need to jump through so many hoops with finicky headphones like the HD800 or Grados.

Some people use EQ software without concern, but every EQ app I've ever played with (including the firmware EQ feature of the FiiO X5 portable player) fails a simple test: Using even just one "pot" on the EQ - to apply gain or attenuation just outside the frequency of a pure sine wave tone - causes easily detectable distortion. For example, try adding just 3 dB of gain at 50 Hz while playing a 60 Hz WAV file - cutting the EQ in and out for comparison. Yuck! If EQs can do that to a pure sine wave tone, just imagine what they do to our music when all the "pots" are applying gain or attenuation.

Any "tuning" that can be done in the hardware, without introducing such distortion, would be most welcome!

Mike

[Xaval]

i don't have experience with the Oppo so I can't comment besides the fact that most amps that do orthos right aren't the best solution to most of top dynamics, and the Senn in particular.

As this is the Beresford area I'll just suggest that you google the Anaxilus mod which solves the problem your facing since it's the "sensitive" area of the your pinea that this cans are affecting the most. Evaluating the best amp for HD800 is a very tough endeavour - way too expensive when you don't have access to gear near you - but I have high hopes on Stan pulling something special with his amp since he owns a pair among many others.

On a side note, HD800 is not hard to drive at all the trick being getting something that plays the load right all across de impedance curve. All amps that seem to do it right are currently more expensive than the cans themselves which is a pitty for someone with limited funds.

Edit: as for EQ, I tend do apply it to all headphones I enjoy so I don't experience nothing negative with a nicely done parametric eqing. I use Fabfilter Pro Q through Audirvana+

[zilch0md]

^ There's a lot of wisdom in your post, Xaval.

:)

Matching an amp to the HD800 is indeed difficult. I've concluded that I would end up spending more money in the long run by trying to find inexpensive solutions. I bought the HD800 impulsively when Amazon.com had a sale on 19 December 2013 that lasted about thirty minutes - I snapped them up for only US $890. Now, as an exaggerated analogy, it's as if I've bought a new helicopter at a very deep discount, but don't know how to fly it and cannot even afford to fly it.

The possibility of selling the HD800 has been haunting me as the logical thing to do ever since I bought it, but I'm enjoying it, despite my lack of an ideal amp. I love just sitting in the helicopter, on the ground, with the engine running and the rotors spinning.

:D

Regarding Fabfilter Pro Q through Audirvana+, do you possess any test files that would allow you to play a pure tone to see if you get any distortion when putting the EQ in and out? (If you could test this, it would save me a lot of effort, as I don't use Audirvana+, currently.

Thanks,

Mike

[Xaval]

YGPM Mike as not to get more OT around here.

[StanleyB]

The ability to tailor an amp's sound on the fly, in the hardware itself (without using software EQ), would hopefully alleviate the need to jump through so many hoops with finicky headphones like the HD800 or Grados.
That's exactly why I decided to have a different look at headamps, and come up with an alternative approach.


Matching an amp to the HD800 is indeed difficult. I've concluded that I would end up spending more money in the long run by trying to find inexpensive solutions.
My headphone amp is not aimed at those with deep pockets, but at those in need of an affordable solution. So you might have to wait for the far more expensive MKII version if I can figure out how to make it expensive...

[RAZRr1275]

That's exactly why I decided to have a different look at headamps, and come up with an alternative approach.


My headphone amp is not aimed at those with deep pockets, but at those in need of an affordable solution. So you might have to wait for the far more expensive MKII version if I can figure out how to make it expensive...
Clearly you need to only use parts labelled premium, make the case hand crafted out of wood and include a set of $200 NOS tubes that aren't part of the amp circuit to increase the warmth of the amp and its aesthetic appeal :)

[Fi-Wi]

Just as long as you do the bling bling AFTER you launched your headamp, Stan. I think there is a entire new market waiting for your revolutionary product. Well, at least I am.

[Stratmangler]

^ There's a lot of wisdom in your post, Xaval.

:)

Matching an amp to the HD800 is indeed difficult. I've concluded that I would end up spending more money in the long run by trying to find inexpensive solutions. I bought the HD800 impulsively when Amazon.com had a sale on 19 December 2013 that lasted about thirty minutes - I snapped them up for only US $890. Now, as an exaggerated analogy, it's as if I've bought a new helicopter at a very deep discount, but don't know how to fly it and cannot even afford to fly it.

The possibility of selling the HD800 has been haunting me as the logical thing to do ever since I bought it, but I'm enjoying it, despite my lack of an ideal amp. I love just sitting in the helicopter, on the ground, with the engine running and the rotors spinning.

:D

Regarding Fabfilter Pro Q through Audirvana+, do you possess any test files that would allow you to play a pure tone to see if you get any distortion when putting the EQ in and out? (If you could test this, it would save me a lot of effort, as I don't use Audirvana+, currently.

Thanks,

Mike

Have you tried anything like this that another member here bought? http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?11546-Werner%92s-system&p=575579#post575579

[StanleyB]

Have you tried anything like this that another member here bought? http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?11546-Werner%92s-system&p=575579#post575579
I had a phonitor on loan to try it out with my HD800. I also tried out an Oppo HA-1. But neither of them could do my HD800 justice and justify such a large expenditure on a headphone amp (around £1100 for either of those two). That's why I ended up designing something to satisfy my own requirements and cost objectives. At less than £200, my solution is a lot easier on the wallet.

[Werner Berghofer]

Stan,

I had a phonitor on loan to try it out with my HD800. I also tried out an Oppo HA-1. But neither of them could do my HD800 justice and justify such a large expenditure on a headphone amp (around £1100 for either of those two). That's why I ended up designing something to satisfy my own requirements and cost objectives. At less than £200, my solution is a lot easier on the wallet.
The German manufacturer SPL (Sound Performance Lab) has been designing analogue and digital audio signal processors for the professional sound and music production since 1984. I have a strong confidence that these guys know how to design and build high-quality, sturdy and beautiful headphone amplifiers like the SPL Phonitor 2 (http://www.thomann.de/gb/spl_phonitor_2_silver.htm) and Phonitor Mini (http://www.thomann.de/gb/spl_phonitor_mini.htm) which should be able to power even the allegedly hard to drive Sennheiser HD 800 headphones in a satisfying and enjoyable way.

I sincerely and wholeheartedly whish you much luck and success for your headphone amplifier project,

Werner.

[StanleyB]

I sincerely and wholeheartedly whish you much luck and success for your headphone amplifier project,
Thanks Werner. I am not trying to compete with these big names. As usual with some of my products, it starts off with a search to find a solution for my own use. But after having had so many requests over the years to tailor the headphone output of my DACs for individual taste and hearing, I decided to come up with a reasonably priced analogue design that each individual could adjust to suit their circumstances or specific headphone. I have had a couple of people pass round over the last few months to listen to it. And in every case it has been quite an effort for them to peel themselves away from it. So I reckon that I might well be onto something.

[Xaval]

Have you tried anything like this that another member here bought? http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?11546-Werner%92s-system&p=575579#post575579
Can't say I have. I own the T1 though. The Beyer T1 is also a bit picky on the amping side but not as much as the HD800. The T1 is also no HD800, both have pros and cons of their own.

The HD800 is the most revealing pair of headphones I've listened to, second only to the Beyer DT48 (another extremely polarizing pair of cans). I sold the HD800 because I couldn't justify owning such an expensive pair of heaphones just to listen to a "fraction" of what they can offer - under a proper system they can sound marvelous or simply "good". And there are plenty of good, eg musical gratifying, systems out there for far less money or fuss.

T1 is one of the best out there and, imo, the best top of the line dynamic for all genres of music listening experience. Jack of all trades and master of few. Far simpler to build a headphone system with T1 than with HD800 for sure.

These days the only way to test proper systems is under meets as the brick and mortar shops are dying - here in Portugal they are simply dead - and mixing and matching before you buy is close to impossible.

From ears I trust there are a couple amps that work "better than simply good" with HD800 without busting my wallet, but for the time being I'll just wait for what Stan will bring to the table.
Maybe an HD800 could be on his way again in the near future. I'd love that!

[Werner Berghofer]

Luis,

I sold the HD800 because I couldn't justify owning such an expensive pair of heaphones just to listen to a "fraction" of what they can offer
selling a piece of gear because it’s too good for your current playback chain? Wow, that’s what I call an interesting approach to downsizing. Did you try to get informed about the amplifier requirements of the Sennheiser HD 800 before purchasing them? Do you occasionally and spontaneously buy a set of tractor tires, even though the only vehicle you own is a bicycle? ;-)

Werner.

[Stratmangler]

Luis,

selling a piece of gear because it’s too good for your current playback chain? Wow, that’s what I call an interesting approach to downsizing. Did you try to get informed about the amplifier requirements of the Sennheiser HD 800 before purchasing them? Do you occasionally and spontaneously buy a set of tractor tires, even though the only vehicle you own is a bicycle? ;-)

Werner.

Nice analogy! :D

[Xaval]

Luis,

selling a piece of gear because it’s too good for your current playback chain? Wow, that’s what I call an interesting approach to downsizing. Did you try to get informed about the amplifier requirements of the Sennheiser HD 800 before purchasing them? Do you occasionally and spontaneously buy a set of tractor tires, even though the only vehicle you own is a bicycle? ;-)

Werner.

I have a large collection of headphones which I enjoy listening to, although it's not as large today as it was a few months ago. Also, I made a good deal whith the buying and selling of the HD800. I wouldn't say HD800 were too good, just not adequately matched to what I had for them at the time. Actually, I do own an amp where they sound great, but it's in the speaker room - it's a speaker amp and it's very large - where I don't listen to heaphones. I need something more conspicuous for the study.

And yes, I was aware of how difficult it is to get a good amp pairing them but still, I needed to get a real sense of how they performed in my own sources and amps. More than once I've found great sounding systems with improbable partners. I've read too many things on foruns/internet that I later found to be inaccurate from my perspective. I haven't given up on the HD800 though. I "just" need an amp that can control properly both extremes of the frequency range with those phones that doesn't cost in the 2000-5000€ range. I have quite a good idea of the amps I could get to match HD800 in my system (they are in the <1000€ range, so quite acceptable) but I'll wait for Stans offering.

The Bushmaster DAC is great - I still have the original one with Venom upgrade - and I see no need at the moment to "upgrade". Incidently, I've tried this little thing on many heaphone and speaker amp systems and it never broke anything... this is stament material in my book. I'm confident that if Stan is building a head amp that's adequate to his requirements, then it should be something worth waiting for.

[Xaval]

Nice analogy! :D

Not really. I can tell before buying the tractor tires that they won't fit the bycicle. Not usually so with audio gear.

[StanleyB]

Do you occasionally and spontaneously buy a set of tractor tires, even though the only vehicle you own is a bicycle? ;-)
I started buying records before I owned a turntable, and compact discs before I owned a CD player :).

[Xaval]

Not really. I can tell before buying the tractor tires that they won't fit the bycicle. Not usually so with audio gear.
This came out unnecessarily harsh. I'm sorry about that. All the best.

[Stratmangler]

This came out unnecessarily harsh. I'm sorry about that. All the best.

No worries Luis - it's all too easy to misconstrue the written word, and to read other things into what is written.
I was tickled by Werner's use of words and the mental image they conjured up, nothing more :cool:

[Xaval]

Stan,

Regarding gain, voltage and impedance of de headamp, can you give us a glimpse of which each individual parameters will be available?
edit: I meant values for each option available.

I think this amp will look lovely with the new standalone DAC :eyebrows:

[mathewf]

Stan - I'm assuming this will be better than the built-in headphone amp on the CII?

[StanleyB]

Stan - I'm assuming this will be better than the built-in headphone amp on the CII?
A lot better. The new rotary controls make a big difference.


Stan,

Regarding gain, voltage and impedance of de headamp, can you give us a glimpse of which each individual parameters will be available?
edit: I meant values for each option available.

I think this amp will look lovely with the new standalone DAC :eyebrows:
I'll get back to that in a follow up to the final description of the controls on the finished front panel.

[wee tee cee]

New stand alone DAC, pray tell!!!!

[StanleyB]

New stand alone DAC, pray tell!!!!
A new DAC? Where?

[mkrzych]

The idea for separate headphone amp is quite nice when used with high quality elements and good power supply - potentially battery. Would be also to have the chassis of that amp in pair with the recent DAC's to be able to stack them up or put side by side and match their dimensions and faceplate design.

[jorwoo14]

sounds like a cool idea

[mkrzych]

Yes, and if the headphone amp is smaller in width, which might be a case, than its height and depth should be the same as the DAC to put it side by side. It's a common design. For instance CMII is not full width (meaning 44cm), so on top of the rack or other full width device you have still room to put the DAC/amp side by side.

[Xaval]

I guess part of late postings here are my fault. When I wrote about the standalone DAC I was joking. There's an emoticon at the end of the sentence... maybe I should have used another... better yet, not even write anything about it.

On another note, with a stand alone head amp, I figured that it could make sense to also offer a stand alone DAC as a stack... The Stan Stack... special price when bought together...:D... oops there goes another emo...

[wee tee cee]

Aye,
Stand alone DAC/Head amp and passive pre....couple of digital mono blocks and bang for buck it would be quite something!!!
I love my BM2/HD6650 combo but a dedicated head amp will definitely be on my Christmas list.....

[StanleyB]

Aye,
Stand alone DAC/Head amp and passive pre....couple of digital mono blocks and bang for buck it would be quite something!!!
I love my BM2/HD6650 combo but a dedicated head amp will definitely be on my Christmas list.....
The headphone amp has the same width of the BMII and is designed to add a variable output to the BM. The variable output is an improved version of the Gator discrete output stage from the Caiman. The Gator output stage in the headphone amp is quite good. I actually prefer to use the Caiman MKII in the fixed position through the variable output on the new headphone amp. This combination drives my power amp quite well with an increased soundstage coming from the Gator discrete circuit.

I had a visitor round today who came to have a listen of the headphone amp. And another name to add to the waiting list.

[Theadmans]

Just wondering Stan - if I connect this new Headphone amp between my Bushmaster MK2 and Creek Integrated Amp - is there an option of fixed output as well as variable ?

I had imagined that the volume control would only operate on the Headphone socket but it appears you are saying that it provides a volume control through the phono output as well. This certainly could in the future be a useful feature for me. I am considering at some point scrapping my Creek Integrated Amp and Passive AVI Neutron IV Speakers and using the new AVI DM5 active speakers instead (in this case you need variable output from the Headphone Amp) :-

http://www.avihifi.co.uk/products.html

However, for now with my integrated Creek is there fixed output as well as variable output - or do you just leave the Head Amp volume at a given setting ? :scratch:

[StanleyB]

There are no options. Just not enough space for a properly designed audio quality copper track layout and matching high end audio quality switch. I already discovered that when designing the Caiman MKII. The switch in the Caiman uses up about 3cm of front panel space, even though the lever that is visible on the front panel only uses about 6mm. I didn't want to add all that extra cost just to fit a fixed/variable switch on the headphone amp. It's primary purpose is for headphone use. The extra benefit of the variable output is something that I decided to add after trying the Gator transistor circuit in the headamp. The variable output on the headphone amp is also a buffer stage, so it works brilliantly as a kind of preamplifier for proper power amp or active speaker matching.

I wouldn't advice putting the volume control at max if you want to have a simulated fixed output. Many (all?) amplifiers tend not to produce their best sound from a predefined input signal level. Some amps sound better if the input signal is slightly higher or lower than the manufacturer's recommended setting. That's something I discovered when I was a repair engineer and had the good fortune to try all sorts of gear on their own or in combination with other items in the audio path. I have so far put that down to signal losses due to impedance mismatching between different equipment. In the case of a preamp/power amp combination, the variable output on the preamp gives you an option to mitigate any signal losses from an impedance mismatch.
So even if you are after a fixed output signal, I would suggest that you try the volume level control at various positions. Then take note of the position of the knob that gives the best audio performance. It might well not be at maximum rotation, but somewhere around the 3PM mark. That would then become your virtual fixed output level.

[wee tee cee]

The headphone amp has the same width of the BMII and is designed to add a variable output to the BM. The variable output is an improved version of the Gator discrete output stage from the Caiman. The Gator output stage in the headphone amp is quite good. I actually prefer to use the Caiman MKII in the fixed position through the variable output on the new headphone amp. This combination drives my power amp quite well with an increased soundstage coming from the Gator discrete circuit.

I had a visitor round today who came to have a listen of the headphone amp. And another name to add to the waiting list.
Thanks Stan,
Just out of interest, will I be able to stay off the mains and utilise battery power?
If Im reading your reply correctly will it also function as an active pre?

[StanleyB]

Thanks Stan,
Just out of interest, will I be able to stay off the mains and utilise battery power?
If Im reading your reply correctly will it also function as an active pre?
You can use battery power. The headphone amp even has an extra DC socket that can act as as a power supply socket output. So you can plug the battery into the headphone amp, and then connect a 2.1mm plug to 2.1mm plug lead between the headamp and say a BM or Caiman. That way you can power both devices with just one power source. I am trying to find a company that can supply me with a high quality lead with the correct DC plugs so that I can offer customers that lead from stock.

Yes the headphone amp can be used as an active preamp, and it sounds surprisingly good as well.

[Theadmans]

There are no options. Just not enough space for a properly designed audio quality copper track layout and matching high end audio quality switch. I already discovered that when designing the Caiman MKII. The switch in the Caiman uses up about 3cm of front panel space, even though the lever that is visible on the front panel only uses about 6mm. I didn't want to add all that extra cost just to fit a fixed/variable switch on the headphone amp. It's primary purpose is for headphone use. The extra benefit of the variable output is something that I decided to add after trying the Gator transistor circuit in the headamp. The variable output on the headphone amp is also a buffer stage, so it works brilliantly as a kind of preamplifier for proper power amp or active speaker matching.

I wouldn't advice putting the volume control at max if you want to have a simulated fixed output. Many (all?) amplifiers tend not to produce their best sound from a predefined input signal level. Some amps sound better if the input signal is slightly higher or lower than the manufacturer's recommended setting. That's something I discovered when I was a repair engineer and had the good fortune to try all sorts of gear on their own or in combination with other items in the audio path. I have so far put that down to signal losses due to impedance mismatching between different equipment. In the case of a preamp/power amp combination, the variable output on the preamp gives you an option to mitigate any signal losses from an impedance mismatch.
So even if you are after a fixed output signal, I would suggest that you try the volume level control at various positions. Then take note of the position of the knob that gives the best audio performance. It might well not be at maximum rotation, but somewhere around the 3PM mark. That would then become your virtual fixed output level.


Thanks Stan - that is very clear.

When do you expect to put the new Head Amp on your website for sale ?

[wee tee cee]

You can use battery power. The headphone amp even has an extra DC socket that can act as as a power supply socket output. So you can plug the battery into the headphone amp, and then connect a 2.1mm plug to 2.1mm plug lead between the headamp and say a BM or Caiman. That way you can power both devices with just one power source. I am trying to find a company that can supply me with a high quality lead with the correct DC plugs so that I can offer customers that lead from stock.

Yes the headphone amp can be used as an active preamp, and it sounds surprisingly good as well.Thanks Stan,
That sounds right up my street. Maplins offer 2.1mm dc splitters for a few quid but it would be nice to get a well terminated lead. Im still using the leads with the inline ferules you sourced me throughout my rig.
Can you give a ball park figure regards cost?
Regards Tony.

[StanleyB]

Both the possible availability date and price have already been mentioned multiple times in the thread, but I can change it if it's too quick and too cheap :lol:.

[wee tee cee]

Hi Adam,

1. Yes.

2. RCA/PHONO IN & OUT, and a headphone socket. DC IN & OUT.

3. Between £100 to £150 excluding VAT and delivery.

4. Yes.

OK, found it.....

[mmantra]

Ref. the name, here's a few;

Huntsman (cos it matches existing nomenclature)
Bandicoot (small and capable)
Dunnart (cos is sounds like "done art")

[StanleyB]

The name has finally been sorted, and it is out of this world :eyebrows:.
Thanks to all of those who have contributed to the suggestion of a name. If you intend to possibly buy one of them, please take note of the topic page and #number for evidence of your contribution. It could be worth something to you ;).

[Jabberwocky]

You could always put the fixed/variable toggle switch on the back - it might be 'safer' there?

[StanleyB]

Just to wrap up this thread before we start another one on the finished product:

It has taken a lot longer than expected to complete a batch of the new headphone amp. Turning my front panel design into an actual piece of metal was not easy. Getting things like this done at an affordable price makes me appreciate the team of people I work with. But as I have promised to try and get some ready before the end of the month, I am having 30 pieces sent to me ahead of any other stock so that I can have some in hopefully next week.

I end up deciding on the name Capella. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capella
Instead of me explaining to you why Capella, just read the info in the link and you are bound to see the connection if you are into music :).

I'll start a new thread after I manage to put some early pics up on my server.